Austria is reintroducing face mask requirements inside supermarkets, banks and post offices, Chancellor Sebastian Kurz said in a press conference. Prior to Kurz’s announcement, masks were required on Austrian public transport, when going to the doctor, and for certain personal service providers like hairdressers.
The chancellor stressed that wearing the masks was obligatory, not a recommendation, saying that they have a symbolic effect because the more they disappear from everyday life the more careless people become.
In addition, restrictions will be introduced for religious services in Austria and churches will be closed in the event of a positive case.
Kurz also said testing requirements would be tightened and quarantine monitored more closely for people arriving in the country from high-risk areas. He noted the Balkans in particular, citing an increase in cases from that region. Travelers will be required to present a negative COVID-19 test.
Austria has reported nearly 20,000 cases of coronavirus, with 710 deaths.
Source: DW.com
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